Are you craving a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious? Look no further! This Creamy Chicken Baked Pasta Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s to help food lovers like you discover this amazing recipe. Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Baked Pasta
- Rich & Creamy – A velvety sauce made with cheese, cream, and herbs.
- Protein-Packed – Loaded with tender, juicy chicken.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps for a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Stays fresh and delicious for days!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Baked Pasta
To make this delicious baked pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach or mushrooms
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour and whisk to form a roux (cook for 1-2 minutes).
- Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken & Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy sauce.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan cheese.
- (Optional: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.)
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes for an extra crispy cheese layer (optional).
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Baked Pasta
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will soften further while baking.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese or ricotta.
- Make it crispy by topping with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days (reheat in the oven or microwave).
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with roasted veggies (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant).
- Cheese Lovers – Add Gouda, cheddar, or provolone for extra cheesiness.
- Turkey or Bacon – Swap chicken with turkey or crispy bacon for a twist.
- Spicy Version – Add jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, farfalle, or shells work great. Avoid thin pasta like spaghetti.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze creamy baked pasta?
Yes! Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
4. How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Ensure enough sauce covers the pasta before baking. Add a splash of broth if needed.
5. What sides go well with this dish?
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Baked Pasta Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! Don’t forget to pin, share, and save this recipe for later.
Happy cooking!
